Although I will already be 20 years old when you read this, reflecting on the last two decades of my life I’ve truly learned a lot. I’ve learned about first loves, relationships, friendships, family, the college struggle, and plenty more. Here are 40 lessons I’ve learned over the years.
In no particular order:
1. People will find new ways to disappoint you.
2. Especially guys.
3. Your first love will not be your last.
4. You will get your heart broken and you will move on.
5. Not every friendship is meant to last.
6. You will grow apart from your high school friends.
7. Sometimes, your dog will be the only one there for you.
8. Music will be your greatest escape.
9. You will overcome your insecurities, one day at a time.
10. You will accomplish more than you thought you could.
11. You are capable of accomplishing your dreams.
12. Believe in yourself.
13. Be confident.
14. Embrace your flaws.
15. People will bring you down, but only you can pull yourself back up.
16. You don’t need religion to find your purpose in life.
17. You can’t escape tragedy; you must face it.
18. You will connect with your family in ways you never thought you would.
19. Your mom will be there for you, through thick and thin.
20. Sometimes the only person you can rely on and trust is yourself.
21. Laughter is one of the best forms of medicine.
22. Naps are essential.
23. Getting lower than an A is not the end of the world.
24. Your grades do not define you.
25. You need to stop comparing yourself to others and focus on who you are.
26. You are always on the journey to self-improvement.
27. You will overcome the negativity and grow stronger every day.
28. You deserve love and happiness.
29. Even if you want to be in a relationship, you don’t need it.
30. You are so much more than the “nice girl.”
31. You are strong.
32. You will rediscover your passion.
33. You will experiment, with food, style, and your college interests.
34. Take chances.
35. Don’t worry too much about what other people think.
36. Priorities change.
37. Love comes in different forms.
38. More often than not, you will care more about other people than they care about you.
39. Learn to love yourself.
40. Be proud of yourself.
In 20 years I’ve learned a lot about myself, what I am capable of, and what my future holds. Very few know this about me, but when I was younger I didn’t think I could make it to my 20s. There were times when I was suicidal, but I never acted on those feelings. I have survived 20 years of emotional hell, dealing with numerous conflicts over the years, and I am now not only stronger than I thought I could be, but have also accomplished so much more than I could have imagined. Here’s to no longer being a teenager, and here’s to a new decade of memories and opportunities.
May my 20s be filled with strength, love, laughter, and happiness.
